Flachau, Austria

When I first visited Austria, I was warmly welcomed into Flachau. The small village embraces the surrounding natural canvas of mountains, streams, forests and fields of wildflowers. Earth seems undisturbed by Flachau; the architecture and the surrounding landscape live in harmony, complimenting each other’s beauty. Life here is simple and content, even the farm animals are happy! The town is built like a puzzle, buildings are only erected where they can fit. Nature isn’t compromised for construction so you will never find a street or house forcing its presence into the land. The awkwardness of the town layering itself between hills with snaking paths through the thick of trees is what makes Flachau perfect. The mystery in its layout always leaves the traveler with an element of surprise. You’ll never know what cottage meets you around the corner nestled into a hill or what waterfall awaits behind the trees. When strolling through it’s meadows, thousands of flowers clothe the grass below your feet and goats run to greet you by the fence clinking the bells underneath their chins all while the way. Nature has tucked Flachau into her mountainside and everyday she gives gifts of beauty to those who gaze upon her. In my short stay, I have learned what it means to live contently yet simply while loving all that nature has to offer. And most memorably, I will never forget the savory flavors of authentic Weiner Schnitzel!